any opinions on synthtic oils & filters? 2005 vinson manual shift,first oil change.

 

Read these articles if you haven't already:

http://www.thumperfaq.com/oil.htm

http://motorcycleinfo.calsci.com/Oils1.html#Oil

I'm not familiar with your particular machine, so my advice is generic. I run dino oil (Honda GN4) in any bike with an autoclutch. A synth blend (Honda HP4 without moly) in my 400's, and a synth blend (Honda HP4M with moly) in the motor of my 450R (and Honda HP Trans Oil in the trans). If I were to run a full synthetic, it would be Maxima Ultra.

 

I switched to Amsoil sythetic 10w40 in our 01 Cat several months ago. The engine starts easier, runs quieter, and shifts quieter and also runs cooler. Whats not to like? Once I get a few hundred miles on the 05 Vinson Auto I will switch it over also. Remember when selecting oil to be sure to get oil that is "wet sump" approved. Most automotive type oils contain friction modifiers ie; moly which can cause clutches to slip. These oils are marked with the "energy conserving" label. Amsoil, Mobil One, and others have synthetics which are formulated to be used in motorcycle/atv engines with wet sumps. As far as filters go I have been using the OE filters...They have good anti-drain back valves, filtering, and overall good construction. There are good aftermarket filters which are available, but make sure your using the right filter for the engine, see the cross reference in print if possible. Hope this helps you, have a good one!